Trimethyl Lock Quinone-Based Organic Molecular Probes for NQO1 Sensing and Imaging

NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase isozyme 1 (NQO1) is a flavoenzyme and involved in protection against oxidative stress the regulation of metabolic functions, which strongly implicated neurodegenerative diseases carcinogenic processes. Furthermore, NQO1 also modes action redox-active drugs (e.g., antimalarials). Determining activity localization living organisms great importance for early disease diagnosis therapy. As promising convenient biosensing technique, trimethyl lock quinone-based organic molecular probes have been well established specific detection imaging cells vivo. In this review, recent progress based on small molecules summarized from perspectives design strategies, sensing mechanisms bioimaging applications. We elucidate potential limitations prospects current to further promote development versatile tools NQO1-related biomedical investigation.